After weeks of absence and rising health rumours, President Paul Biya returns to a warm reception in Yaoundé, quelling speculation and reaffirming his leadership.
YAOUNDÉ, CAMEROON– Cameroon’s President Paul Biya made a highly anticipated return to Yaoundé on Monday, ending weeks of speculation about his health. The 91-year-old leader’s absence from the public eye since early September had fuelled rumours, but his return was met with jubilant celebrations in the capital.
After landing at Yaoundé’s international airport, Biya, accompanie/d by his wife Chantal, was seen shaking hands with officials. Supporters, many dressed in outfits adorned with his portrait, cheered as his motorcade made its way to the presidential palace. State broadcaster CRTV dedicated extensive coverage to his return, with a presenter declaring,
“This will put an end to all the speculation.”
Biya’s whereabouts became a subject of intrigue after he left Beijing in September, following the China-Africa cooperation summit. His absence from the United Nations General Assembly in New York and a summit of French-speaking nations in Paris only heightened concerns.
On October 8, the government issued a statement assuring Cameroonians that Biya would soon be back, while also banning local media from discussing the president’s health.
Flight tracking data revealed that the presidential plane, carrying Biya, had departed from Geneva, where he reportedly spent several weeks.
Large posters across Yaoundé welcomed Biya’s return, marking the end of weeks of uncertainty for the leader who has governed Cameroon for over four decades.
Biya has ruled Cameroon for over 40 years, making him one of the world’s longest-serving heads of state.
“Welcome Home, Mr President,” read one billboard in the capital.
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